What is cytotoxic defined as?

• A. Prevents cell division
• B. Kills cells
• C. Promotes cell growth
• D. None of the above

Answer: (B)

Cytotoxic is defined as having the capacity to kill cells. This term is often used in oncology and immunology to describe substances, particularly drugs or immune components, that can induce cell death in cancer cells or pathogens. Cytotoxic agents work by targeting and damaging the cellular structures of these cells, leading to their destruction.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of the term. For instance, while preventing cell division may describe some antineoplastic agents, it does not inherently imply cell death. Promoting cell growth is the opposite of cytotoxic activity, representing a supportive or proliferative effect rather than a destructive one. Therefore, the defining characteristic of cytotoxic is its ability to kill cells, which aligns with the correct interpretation.